Report: Possible Closure of Free Radical Design, Developer of TimeSplitters
TimeSplitters Developer Free Radical Design May Face Closure after Only Two Years - Report
Free Radical Design, the studio behind the beloved TimeSplitters franchise, may be facing a potential closure as its parent company, Embracer Group, is currently evaluating its future. Although there is still a possibility that Free Radical Design will survive.
Furthermore, it is a requirement for Free Radical Design employees to receive a minimum notice period of 30 days prior to any foreseeable job cuts as mandated by UK labor legislation. This obligation originates from Plaion, one of Embracer's European branches, which is bound by these employment regulations.
Although the closure of the studio has not been officially confirmed, there is evidence on LinkedIn indicating that numerous Free Radical Design employees, including junior artists, game designers, and environmental designers, are actively seeking alternative career opportunities.
After its failed $2 billion deal with Saudi's investment fund, Embracer Group has taken drastic measures by conducting numerous layoffs. Earlier this year, Volition, the developer behind Saints Row, was forced to shut down, and there are reports that Gearbox, the developer of Borderlands, is also seeking a buyer.
In 2018, THQ Nordic, a subsidiary of Embracer Group, obtained the rights to the TimeSplitters IP. In 2021, Free Radical Design, which had been acquired by Embracer Group, was revitalized with the task of developing a new TimeSplitters game. However, the future of this project is currently uncertain.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I grew up playing the TimeSplitters games and they hold a special place in my heart. The news that Free Radical Design, the developer behind the franchise, may be facing closure is devastating. The studio has a rich history of creating innovative and beloved games, and its closure would be a huge loss for the gaming industry.
The fact that Embracer Group is evaluating the future of Free Radical Design after just two years is concerning. It suggests that the company is not committed to supporting the studio and its projects. This is especially disappointing given that Free Radical Design was only recently tasked with developing a new TimeSplitters game. The uncertainty surrounding the future of this project is frustrating and disheartening.
